The Limón Dance Company (LDC) makes its highly anticipated return to The Joyce Theater tonight, kicking off a landmark 78th season with a program that honors the legacy of its visionary founder, José Limón. This historic performance celebrates the company’s enduring commitment to humanistic storytelling through movement, offering a powerful exploration of the themes and inspirations that shaped Limón’s distinctive choreographic style. With a rich program that bridges past and present, LDC invites audiences to experience the timeless emotional depth and artistry that have defined its reputation for nearly five decades. 

Opening the show, audiences will experience Doris Humphrey’s captivating Two Ecstatic Themes, a two-part solo that delves into Humphrey’s fascination with the Apollonian-Dionysian dichotomy, capturing the essence of acquiescence and achievement. Having premiered in 1931, this work is regarded for its expressiveness and humanity. It cemented her role as a leading figure in modern dance and marked a turning point in Humphrey’s choreographic life. 

The following piece explores the dynamics of political power.José Limón’s The Traitor, which premiered in 1954, was a response to the McCarthy hearings and the climate of betrayal that loomed over the arts and entertainment industries. One of the most transformative works in modern dance history, this insightful retelling of Gethsemane continues to push boundaries in this upcoming season; originally set on eight men, the work will make its World Premiere featuring a mixed-gender cast. This choice emphasizes the universal themes of the work and serves to translate this historic company into a modern context by defining a commitment to inclusivity and diversity. The Traitor reminds audiences of the value of upholding one’s beliefs in the face of ideological obstacles, and for Artistic Director Dante Puleio, there is a deeper meaning to this piece this year given the timing of the company’s NYC run: “This season, we invite you to reflect on the significance of your civic duty. Voting is not just a right, but a responsibility, and by participating in the democratic process, we can all contribute to shaping a more inclusive and resilient society. Take this opportunity to make your voice heard in the upcoming elections and then join me for an evening of profound artistic expression.” 

After a 45-year hiatus, Limón’s lively and athletic Scherzo will make its triumphant return to the theater. In this high-energy male quartet, a drum is tossed between dancers in a playful game of rhythm and movement. The choreography incorporates the instrument, enabling the dancers to visualize the aural landscape, and when no music is present, the dancers create and embody their own sound.

Next, audiences will witness the magic of a new creation by up-and-coming choreographer Kayla Farrish. The Bessie Awardee has assembled a work that draws together two of Limón’s thematically aligned works: Redes (Nets) made in 1951 and El Grito (The Scream) from 1952. Farrish is a compelling new voice in the dance world, bringing a multi-disciplinary approach to her process that has earned her recognition from Sundance, the New York Times, and the Harkness Promise Award. As an African American woman with southern roots, Farrish’s work is closely tied to themes of displacement, identity, and community—issues that Limón explored over 70 years ago. Her commissioned piece builds on this dialogue, drawing from archival photos and writings to re-examine two of Limón’s lost works that addressed his experiences as an artist of color. Through her new work, Farrish offers a perspective on unity and the pursuit of freedom, sparking a conversation between her vision and Limón’s legacy. Featuring costumes by Márion Talán de la Rosa and music composed by long-time collaborator Alex MacKinnon, this is a performance experience you won’t want to miss! This commission is supported by the American Dance Festival, with early residency backing from Vanderbilt University’s Blair School of Music and Kaatsbaan Cultural Park.

Featuring Another all-too-relevant work, the program will close with Limón’s masterpiece Missa Brevis. Inspired by the bravery and resilience shown by the Polish people after World War II, Limón created this work as a testament to the enduring strength of the human spirit. Missa Brevis is a powerful tribute that captures the profound strength and hope that rises even amidst devastation, celebrating the indomitable force of humanity. With assistance from co-reconstructors Kathryn Alter and Kurt Douglas, this 2024 reconstruction marks the monumental 65th anniversary of Missa Brevis. Audiences will also enjoy a newly remastered recording of Zoltan Kodály’s Missa Brevis en Tempore Belli (“Short Mass in Time of War”), enriching the work’s reflection on humanity and peace in this landmark revival.

Throughout their one-week run, LDC will have three special performances. Get the early bird treatment in tonight’s preview performance, mark your calendar for opening night on Wednesday, November 6, or join the company in a special curtain chat on Thursday, November 7 after the show. 

Don’t miss out on this culturally pertinent and historic performance season! Learn more about the Limón Dance Company and purchase tickets HERE.